The most interesting thing about babies is that they are so enormously interested; the most wonderful thing about them is their infinite capacity for wonder.
– Alison Gopnik, The Scientist in the Crib

“Babies plus nature equals joyful learning,” writes outdoor classroom consultant Heather Fox, “However, we tend to keep this age group indoors all too often. We worry that the weather isn’t quite right or the infant is too hungry or tired. We wonder if the time it takes to get ready to go outside really is worth it. The answer is ‘yes,’ it is absolutely worth it. There are lasting benefits for both teachers and children,”

Fox continues, “With brains wired to notice and categorize details, they want to see, hear, feel, and taste – first-hand. Allison Gopnik (1998) refers to this as ‘lantern consciousness, a vivid panoramic illumination of what is everyday.’ Take a group of infants outdoors and you can almost see the metaphorical ‘lights go on.’ They become focused, yet calm, primed for learning and connection.”

Nature blogger Jenette Restivo adds, “With a myriad of mental, physical, sleep, and sensory benefits, nature should be an essential element in a baby’s life,” noting among other things, “When outdoor playspaces are given a natural makeover with natural elements such as trees, sand, logs, sticks, stones, bark, and hay, as well as structures such as bridges and platforms, infants and toddlers show more variety in their movement and physical activities.”

For those who fear exposing children to ‘germs,’ it may be helpful to share Restivo’s point that, “Microbes in nature boost immune system development. Rather than keeping baby in a sterile indoor environment, take them outside so they can build stronger immune systems for life.”